Ronaldinho is a genius: Fred

Rio de Janeiro, July 14 (IANS) Fluminense striker Fred has praised the signing of former Brazil international teammate and two-time FIFA World Player of the Year winner Ronaldinho.

Fred said the Rio de Janeiro club’s squad was looking forward to welcoming the 35-year-old in the coming days, reports Xinhua.

“We have a lot of quality players now and with the arrival of Ronaldinho, who is a genius, our group is going to be even stronger,” Fred told reporters.

Ronaldinho ended speculation about his future on Saturday by agreeing to join Fluminense until the end of 2016 for a reported monthly wage of $200,000 dollars plus bonuses.

The former FC Barcelona star had been a free agent after terminating his contract with Mexico’s Queretaro by mutual consent in June.

Fluminense assistant coach Luiz Fernando said the arrival of the 2002 World Cup winner was a boon for the club’s youngsters.

“He is an important player, one that any club would like to have,” Fernando said. “He is going to strengthen the team. There is no doubt that Ronaldinho is going to be important for all of us, and the for the youth players. To shine they have to play alongside these types of players. He is going to help a lot.”

Fluminense are currently second in Brazil’s Serie A standings with 27 points from 13 matches.

Ronaldinho will be be presented to the club’s fans at the Maracana stadium on June 19 but will only begin training on July 27.